Paris-Brest-Paris
 


Frequently Asked Questions

 

Participants
 
Who is the tour aimed at ? 
We like to combine the best of two worlds. On the one hand a challenging bike journey in an attractive environment and on the other hand to have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and cultural heritage of a fabulous country.
The tour is aimed at individuals who want to challenge themselves. It's definitely a challenge to cycle the whole distance between Paris and Brest and back. But the tour is also meant for the people who like to travel by bicycle through a beautiful country and to visit the famous cities and some of the less known attractions. It is not a problem if you take a seat some days in the supporting vans. If you like the challenge or if you prefer more the journey, you are both welcome in "Paris-Brest-Paris". 
  
Am I capable of doing this ? 
If you are in good health, love a challenge and enjoy cycling, you are capable of completing "Paris-Brest-Paris". We average roughly 110 km per day and you can ride at your own pace. You will be served lunch at the mid-point of each day's ride, and our crew are always available to assist you if you are having difficulties of any kind. On any day when you don't feel up to biking, you can also catch a ride on one of our support vans. 
 
 
Before you start

What about insurance ?
You are responsible for obtaining health and travel insurance, including emergency rescue. Further information will be given in the brochure. Individuals without proper insurance will not be allowed to participate. 

 
On the Tour
 
Where do cyclists stay and sleep ? 
Suitable accommodation has been organised throughout the tour. The vast majority you stay at well equipped campsites. In totality, you'll also stay 8 nights in a hotel, this includes the first night and the last night in Paris. 
At several campsites you have the possibility to rent a bungalow or site caravan at own expense. The campgrounds are most of the time on the outskirts of cities on our route.
 
What will I eat ? 
On biking days, our cook will prepare four meals. We know how important food is on a trip like this. You will be treated to generous portions of food that will be a combination of regional recipes and meals made from local ingredients as well as some of the cook's specialties. We will also provide energy bars, clean water and an energy boosting beverage.
Everyone is of course free to explore and sample the culinary hot spots along the way. We believe eating the rich local cuisine is part and parcel of the journey.
For those with dietary restrictions and/or ferocious appetites, you need not be concerned. We take all this in consideration when preparing your meals. You may go to sleep exhausted, but never hungry.
 
Who will carry my equipment ?
Support vehicles will carry your personal items including tent, sleeping bags, camping gear and spare parts. In addition, support vehicles will also carry such items as food, water, kitchen equipment and emergency medical items. While riding, you only have to carry some basic tools, a spare tube, water, and a snack. 


Climate
 
What kind of weather should I expect ?
The weather conditions in France at the middle of spring are normally fine with temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. It is not uncommon that we get rain showers along the way. On a whole, we expect too have good weather for cycling. Not too hot, and rarely too cool or wet; and in the end it's all part of the adventure.
   

Road conditions
 
What is the terrain like ?
The "Paris-Brest-Paris" is all together 2.400 kilometer which is divided into 22 cycling days. An average of around 110 kilometers. 
The whole route follows mainly quiet roads and cycle paths. We have tried to find an enjoyable combination between pleasant rides along the Loire and Seine, scenic roads along the coast, and here and there an iconic place of the rich Tour de France history.
Most of the route rolls slightly up and down, but you don't have to expect serious climbs. The granny gears you can leave this time at home.

 
Bike
 
What kind of bike should I use ?
The bike is without doubt the most important part of your equipment. The tour can be completed on any kind of bicycle as long as it is entirely human powered. The route is paved all the way. Road bikes are the most efficient way to cover the distance, but hybrids, mountain bikes and trekking bikes might be more comfortable. It's very personal which bicycle you prefer.
  

Non-cyclist 
 
I don't want to cycle, but can I still come ?
Yes, there is a limited number of places for people who like to join "Paris-Brest-Paris", but don't like to cycle. You can take part in the organization around the cyclists and join the other staff with their daily activities like setting up campsites, providing the meals, visit local markets, etcetera.
 
 
What to bring
 
What do I need to bring along ?
Detailed information will be sent in the brochure.